Browns WR Gordon reports to camp, hearing looms

The embattled Pro Bowl wide receiver reported to Browns training camp Friday and passed his conditioning test as he awaits an appeal hearing with the NFL on a possible suspension.

Gordon is scheduled to meet with the league Aug. 1. He’s facing a one-year ban for violating the substance abuse policy for at least the third time. Gordon was suspended for the first two games last season, but still led the league with 1,646 yards receiving and scored nine touchdowns.

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He entered the league with a history of marijuana abuse after failing two drug tests in college. Gordon reportedly entered a rehab clinic following a recent DUI arrest in Raleigh, North Carolina, and spent two weeks at a clinic in California.

Browns coach Mike Pettine would not confirm if Gordon had been to rehab, but cornerback Joe Haden said he was glad his teammate would take the necessary steps to get well.

”I’m happy for him,” he said. I’m here for J.G. I love him like a brother. We’re just here for support and for him to do that is a big step. That means that something’s going on and he’s trying to fix a problem.”

Looking fit and fast, Gordon participated with Cleveland’s other veterans in the grueling conditioning test.

As Pettine, general manager Ray Farmer and the team’s quarterbacks, rookies and injured players looked on, Gordon and others ran 20 sprints they had to finish in mandated times.

Mammoth defensive tackle Phil Taylor did not complete the sprints, and tight end Gary Barnidge looked woozy as he was helped off the field by trainers before being driven on a cart to the team’s headquarters.

Safety Donte Whitner finished the test by doing a somersault over the goal line. He slowly walked into the training facility escorted by a trainer.

It’s the first time in years the Browns have had their conditioning test open to the media.

Pettine said the players who didn’t pass will be re-tested before Saturday’s workout.